With a comfy harness that keeps the load close to the body, the Rab Muon 50 is good for scrambling and could be used for fastpacking, says Alex Roddie.
The Rab Muon 50 is a pack inspired by running vests, but designed for lightweight backpacking. With a comfy harness that keeps the load close to the body, it’s good for scrambling and could be used for fastpacking.
Alex Roddie’s verdict
If you’re looking for a pack that can do double duty, covering general backpacking with faster-paced adventures then this is worth a look – but try it on first.- comfy running-style harness
- good stability
- fairly light
- good value
- only one back length and non-adjustable
- bottom compression cords are awkward
- limited stretch in front pocket
- no hipbelt pockets
| Quick Specs |
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| Price: $298 / £220 Weight: 1050g Materials: 85% recycled 100D high-tenacity ripstop nylon Features: running-style harness, hydration sleeve, 2x combined bottom straps and ice axe fastenings, side compression straps, cordage attachment points, load lifters Volume: 65 litres Closure: detachable zipped floating lid Back: fixed, ventilated, with internal frame Hipbelt: cushioned, ventilated, adjustable, 5 inches Pockets: 2 zipped stretch mesh on harness, large lid pocket, mesh pocket under lid, large front stretch mesh pocket, 2x large side mesh pockets Sizes: one size Women/Mens version: yes rab.equipment/uk |
However, the non-adjustable back only comes in one length, and a few design niggles make it less than perfect. This pack sits somewhere in between the Atom Packs and Fjällräven models in this test in terms of features – but is closer to the Atom Pack in weight.
That harness is the headline feature. It’s honestly pretty great, with broad shoulder straps and the ability to cinch it down over your chest for stability. This leads to a stable carry, especially on uneven ground or if moving fast. I also like the massive, zipped mesh pockets on the shoulder straps – the best of any pack I tested. However, the back length only comes in one size and it can’t be adjusted, so if you’re taller or shorter than average then this may not suit. Thankfully, it felt about right for me.
The back itself is comfortable and well-ventilated. Other design details are a mixed bag. I like the floating lid with large pocket, and the fact that you can detach this and use the pack without it. The large front pocket has a panel of non-stretchy fabric which does limit its usefulness.
The side pockets were too big for my water bottles, which flopped around awkwardly. I also found the bottom compression cords difficult to adjust securely. I also wish it had hipbelt pockets.
If you’re looking for a pack that can do double duty, covering general backpacking with faster-paced adventures then this is worth a look – but I recommend trying it on first. The value is good.
Testing conditions
Alex tested these packs on a variety of multi-day backpacking routes in the Scottish Highlands and Lowlands as well as the Austrian Alps. They were used from autumn through to spring in a broad range of conditions. Weights are as measured on Alex’s digital scale.
This review was first published in the August 2025 issue of The Great Outdoors magazine. Compare it with others in our guide to the best backpacking packs.
